Over the last few years, Tanzanian journalists have been subjected to attacks and harassment, including physical attacks, threats and intimidation. The archaic legal framework limits free speech in the country. For example, the 1976 Newspaper Act allows the authorities broad discretion in restricting media on the basis of national security or public interest. The semiautonomous island of Zanzibar also constrains media freedom through its restrictive media laws and its tight control on media ownership.

ARTICLE 19 is working to increase the safety and security of journalists in Tanzania, promoting the respect and protection of media freedom and freedom of expression by both state and non-state actors. We are also working to encourage networking and advocacy for media freedom and freedom of expression.

Attacks on journalists in Tanzania

Absalom Kibanda

Absalom Kibanda was attacked on 5 March 2013 by unknown people as he was heading home. He is the chairman of the Tanzania Editors Forum and also the Managing Editor of Tanzania Daima, a Swahili daily newspaper. It is thought that the attack is related to Kibanda’s work as a journalist. Nothing was taken from his car.

Daudi Mwangosi

On 2 September 2012, Chanel Ten television journalist, Daudi Mwangosi had gone to cover the opening of a Chama chama Democrasia na Maendeleo (Chadema) party office in Nyololo village, Mufindi South, when the police used teargas canisters to forcefully disperse the party’s supporters who had gathered to witness the ceremony. Mwangosi died instantly after one of the teargas canisters that had been fired into the crowd exploded against him, ripping through his stomach.